You are designing a simple audio amplifier using an op-amp. If the input signal exceeds the supply voltage limits of the op-amp, what is the most likely result of this situation?

When the input signal pushes the op‑amp beyond its supply rails, the device can no longer amplify linearly and its output is forced to the nearest rail voltage. This “clipping” means the output waveform is cut off at the supply voltage, creating a distorted signal. For example, with a ±15 V supply, an input that would normally drive the output to ±20 V will instead be limited to ±15 V, producing a harsh, flat‑topped waveform. This saturation is why designers often use higher supply voltages or add input attenuation to keep the signal within the op‑amp’s linear range.